Nature Center offers programs on climate change, winter wildlife tracking

The Grafton Nature Center offers two environment-related programs this week.

Dr. Alan Betts will be speaking on climate change and its effects on Vermont.

First, the center is collaborating with Ascutney Mountain Audubon Society and The Rockingham Public Library to offer a talk titled Water and Vermont’s Changing Climate, at 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 7 in the Rockingham Public Library, 65 Westminster St., in Bellows Falls. It will be presented by atmospheric scientist Dr. Alan Betts.

Betts will explain how global climate change is transforming Vermont’s weather patterns and how we can move toward an adaptable, resilient future. The event is free and open to the public.

From 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 9, Animal Tracks and Trails: Reading the Stories They Tell, will be lead by wildlife tracker George Leoniak, and includes a snowshoe trek. Participants will meet at the Nature Museum, 186 Townsend Road, Grafton for an introductory talk then proceed to a Howville trail.

Attendees will practice the art of winter wildlife tracking through Leoniak’s presentation then engage in a moderately challenging 2+ hour snowshoe hike to discover animal tracks.

The program fee is $22.50 for museum members and $25 for non-members. Enrollment is limited to 15 people. The Nature Center advises participants to bring snowshoes and wear appropriate winter clothing. Snowshoes are available for rental if reserved in advance. Register on-line at http://www.nature-museum.org/Register-for-Tracking-Hike.html. To register by phone or for more information, call 802-843-2111.